In the framework of the project “Inclusive Democratic Participation: Enhancing Education, Engagement, and Oversight in Lebanon”, financed by the European Union and implemented by the European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES) in partnership with the Arab Center for the Rule of Law and Integrity (ACRLI), the first Advisory Committee meeting was held on 29 April 2025 at the Smallville Hotel in Badaro, Beirut, Lebanon.
This two-year project, launched on 01 March 2025, aims to strengthen democratic values and foster inclusive participation across Lebanon by empowering civil society organizations (CSOs), supporting democratic education, advocating for legal reforms, improving electoral processes, and promoting political engagement, particularly among women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The specific objectives of the project are:
• To improve transparency, fairness and Integrity of Lebanon’s Electoral Process
• To strengthen the capacity of Electoral Stakeholders
• To foster active and inclusive participation by increasing voter engagement
The first advisory committee meeting served as a platform to present the project's objectives and implementation plan while seeking the committee’s strategic guidance on key aspects of the project, such as legal reform, civic engagement, and stakeholder coordination. The Advisory Committee plays a vital role in ensuring strategic alignment, guiding the planning process, addressing emerging challenges, and enhancing the methodology for implementing project’s activities.
ECES was represented by Mr. Aous Qutaishat during the strategic meeting, providing insights on how to build the capacities of electoral stakeholders around democratic principles. ACRLI was represented by Dr. Wassim Harb - ACRLI general Supervisor, Dr. Issam Sleiman - Former President of the Lebanese Constitutitonal Court & Chief Technical Advisor of the project, Mrs Zeina Helou - Senior Election Legal Expert, and Mrs. Roula Zayat – Project’s Manager.
